Keeping Dogs Safe from Heat

Texas is famous for heat…especially in August. Now, consider if you had to be in that heat barefoot and wearing a fur coat with a body temperature higher than a normal person. This is what your dog experiences. Your dog trusts you to keep them safe, so here are some guidelines.

Simply going for a walk can harm your dog if it is too hot outside. In August, it’s fair to say the average air temperature is about 95⁰F. This means the temperature of the grass is about 105⁰F, concrete sidewalks are a blistering 134-140⁰F, and asphalt roads are a scalding 150-155⁰F! For reference, first-degree burns occur at 111⁰F for human skin. Only take them for short walks in the early mornings before the temperature has had time to heat up and stay on the grass and in the shade as much as you can. Offer water frequently. They will be thirsty even if you are not.

Other factors can make the heat more dangerous for some dogs. Seniors, those with dark coats, pups under 6 months old, those with flat noses (pugs, bulldogs, boxers, etc.), and obese dogs are at an increased risk due to not being able to breathe and pant efficiently and will overheat faster.

Let’s talk about dogs in parked cars during 95⁰F days. The windows allow in radiant sunlight without releasing the heat inside fast enough. Leaving the windows down a bit only decreases the temperature by half of one degree. In only 10 minutes, which goes a lot faster than you think, the heat inside the car will be 114⁰F. At 20 minutes, it’s 124⁰F and at 30 minutes, it’s reached 129⁰F. That’s nearly the same temperature as a concrete sidewalk on a 95⁰F day. Leaving your dog at home in the air conditioning is much kinder and safer, even if they miss you while you’re gone. Bring them back a treat or toy if you feel guilty, but please don’t take them with you.

The scariest result of an over-heated dog is heatstroke. This is a life-or-death emergency just like with a human. The first signs you’ll notice are rapid panting, red tongue and gums, excessive drooling, and thirst. They may vomit, become confused, or be weak and lack coordination. If not treated quickly enough, they could collapse, have seizures, or die. If you notice that your dog has become overheated, immediately move them into the shade or take them inside to cool them. If this isn’t enough, use cool, wet towels or a hose and fans to try to get their body temperature down. However, don't use ice or submerge them in cold water. Once they start to recover, you can offer small amounts of water. Transfer them to the nearest veterinarian if they don’t recover quickly and fully.

Please be mindful of how the heat affects your dog more profoundly than it does you and take the proper measures to keep them safe.